Description

A comforting and hearty dish, sour cream beef noodle casserole combines tender egg noodles with a creamy, savory beef sauce, all baked to perfection under a layer of melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s preferences.

Ingredients

• For the Beef Mixture:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Noodles and Sauce:
• 12 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• For the Topping:
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation Method

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until onion is translucent.

2. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes and set aside.

3. Boil salted water in a large pot, add egg noodles, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley. Mix well and add cooked noodles, tossing to coat.

5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Layer half of the noodle mixture in the baking dish, then half of the beef mixture. Repeat with remaining noodles and beef.

7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until cheese is melted. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes for a golden topping.

9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Tips and Conclusion

Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Substitutions: Swap the cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a smoother texture.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Sour cream beef noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty beef for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete and unforgettable dinner. Share this recipe with friends and explore more delicious ideas for your next meal!